Asger Risom
A new survey reveals widespread frustration among UK electric vehicle owners, with many forced to queue or reroute trips due to unreliable charging infrastructure. Here’s what EV drivers are dealing with on the roads.
A new survey reveals widespread frustration among UK electric vehicle owners, with many forced to queue or reroute trips due to unreliable charging infrastructure. Here’s what EV drivers are dealing with on the roads.
Two-Thirds Wait Over 10 Minutes to Charge
66% of UK EV drivers have waited more than 10 minutes at public charging stations before a charger became available.
Average Delay Hits 22 Minutes
Among those delayed, the typical wait time to begin charging was 22 minutes — with some reporting waits of up to two hours.
Unplugged Cars Blocking Charging Bays
74% of EV drivers found charging bays occupied by vehicles not even plugged in, adding to growing frustration.
Broken Chargers a Common Problem
64% of respondents encountered out-of-order chargers, highlighting persistent maintenance issues in the network.
Drivers Plan Routes to Avoid Charging
80% of EV owners now choose leisure trip destinations they can reach without needing to recharge en route.
Summer Travel Impacted
With summer holidays in full swing, charging delays are affecting route planning and trip timing for many EV families.
Industry Leaders Call for Improvement
Both insurers and charger operators emphasize the need for reliable, accessible infrastructure to build driver confidence.
Charging Network Growing Fast
There are now over 84,000 public charging points in the UK, with about two new chargers added every hour.
2030 Petrol Ban Looms
With the UK set to ban new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, resolving these infrastructure issues is becoming urgent.
